We get back to the estate, the boys go with Nadia, and Julian takes me straight to his study. The moment the door closes, he turns on me. “This is out of control.”
“I know.”
“He came after them in public. In front of witnesses. Started a gunfight at their school.”
“I know.”
“People could have died, Aurelia. Children could have died.”
“But they didn’t.”
“This time. What about next time?”
“What do you want me to do?”
“Give him access. Supervised visits. Let him see them before he burns down half the city trying to take them.”
“He just tried to kidnap them, and you want me to reward him?”
“I want you to be smart. He’s their father. He’s not going away. And every day you keep them from him, he gets more desperate.” Julian crosses his arms. “I’m arranging a meeting. Tomorrow. We’re setting terms whether you like it or not.”
“I should have a say?—”
“You had five years to figure this out, and you didn’t. Now I’m fixing it before he kills someone.”
“Julian—”
“Tomorrow. Two p.m. We’re ending this.” He walks out.
I stand there alone in his study, hands shaking, and pull out my phone.
A text from Cassian is already waiting:I’m sorry they were scared. But I meant what I said. I will see my sons.
25
CASSIAN
My phone ringsonly hours after the school incident.
Nadia Vance.
I stare at her name on the screen for two seconds before answering. “Mrs. Vance.”
“Mr. Rourke.” Her voice is calm. “Julian wants to meet. Discuss terms.”
“Terms for what?”
“Access to your sons. Supervised visits. A way forward that doesn’t involve violence.”
“I’m listening.”
“Tomorrow. Two p.m. Carlyle Hotel, same conference room we used for the business proposal. Just the four of us—you, Declan, Julian, and me.”
“Aurelia?”
“Won’t be there. This is between you and Julian first. Once terms are set, she’ll be informed.”
I grip the phone tighter. “And if I don’t agree to your terms?”
